101 things to do in india

1. Visit the Taj Mahal- The Epitome of Love

1. Visit the Taj Mahal- The Epitome of Love

When listing the must things to do in India,
you can’t leave Taj Mahal out. Built in 17th
century, this white marble monument
attracts thousands of tourists from all over
the world. It is the epitome of love as the
world knows it. While a visit to Taj Mahal
at any time of the day is exciting, consider
visiting it during night, preferably on a full
moon night. The charges are a little higher
for night visits, but it is worth the

2. Eat at the highway Punjabi Dhaba- A gastronomical
delight

2. Eat at the highway Punjabi Dhaba- A gastronomical
delight

There is nothing like have a gastronomical
delight while on the road. While you are on the
highway, especially the Delhi-Chandigarh one,
don’t forget to have a meal in one of the many
Punjabi dhabas, which usually operate 24/7.
Murthal, near Sonepat, on NH1 is the hotspot
for Punjabi dhabas, Gulshan Dhaba being the
most famous of the lot. Don’t worry about the
hygiene bit though. Just indulge in lip-
smacking food.

3. Old Delhi tour and Chandni Chowk- Fall in Love with
the Chaos

3. Old Delhi tour and Chandni Chowk- Fall in Love with
the Chaos

This is where you get to feel the pulse of Delhi.
As you make your way through narrow streets
filled with people, you start wonder how people
can live in such a chaotic place. But soon enough,
you fall in love with the chaos and the liveliness
of the place. While in Old Delhi and Chandni
Chowk area, do not miss a visit to Paranthe Wali
Gali, lip smacking Mutton Burra at Karim’s,
traditional Indian sweets and a visit to Jama
Masjid. A rickshaw ride completes the
experience. You will be left thrilled by the way

4. Bike trip to Ladakh- An Ethereal Experience

4. Bike trip to Ladakh- An Ethereal Experience

This one is for the adventure enthusiasts. If you
love biking, a bike trip to Ladakh is ultimate fun.
You start from Manali and make your way through
the stunning Rohtang Pass, beautiful Lahual and
Spiti Valley, and cross several high mountain passes
before entering Ladakh. While in Ladakh, go a bike
trip to Khardung La pass, the highest motorable
pass in the world. You can take this biking trip to
Ladakh only between June to December, as
Rohtang Pass remains closed for six months,

5. Rural Olympics Punjab- Back to the Basics

5. Rural Olympics Punjab- Back to the Basics

Forget Olympics. Punjab plays host to something
much more exciting, and rustic, every year. Kila
Raipur, a small village in Ludhiana, comes alive
between February and March each year, as it plays
host to a sports festival- Punjabi style. Hundreds of
people throng to this fair, some to watch while
others to participate. It is pure fun to watch men
fight it out in a game of mud wrestling; to watch a
bullock cart race; tractor pulling and so much more.
The festival sees as many as 40-50 events spread
over 3 days. And it is just the locals who participate

6. Valley of Flowers- Beautiful is an understatement

6. Valley of Flowers- Beautiful is an understatement

Do you believe in fairies and Wonderland? If you
don’t, the Valley of Flowers will make you believe
in them. The National Park and a World Heritage
Site is located in the state of Uttarakhand, nestled
amidst the majestic treks in Himalayas. The myriad
colored flowers are an ethereal experience,
complemented by mist covered peaks. Nanda Devi
National Park lies to the east of Valley of Flowers.
The region is home to endangered species as well,
such as snow leopard and Asiatic Black Bear.

7. Corbett National Park- A rendezvous with the wild side

7. Corbett National Park- A rendezvous with the wild side

A rendezvous with the wild side of nature is always
an exciting experience. Corbett National Park can
definitely give a thrilling rendezvous with the
wilderness of India. It is one of the oldest national
parks of the country, and certainly one of the most
popular. Embark on a wildlife safari here, either in
a jeep or an elephant. Wildlife safari packages
range from short 3 day tours to extensive 11 day
tours. You can spot several wild animals here
including tigers, leopards, and so much more.

8. Wagah Border Visit- A strange Bonhomie

8. Wagah Border Visit- A strange Bonhomie

Forget the changing of guard routine in London.
The Wagah border ceremony is much more
interesting. As the sun goes down, the retreat
ceremony at this India-Pakistan border begins.
Bugles are sounded from both the sides, which
could easily blow the air out of your lungs if
you try it; guards from both the sides stomp
their feet as hard as possible, trying to get one-
up over each other. It is as exciting as watching
a last ball India-Pakistan match.

9. A religious landmark, and an architectural one too-
Golden Temple Amritsar

9. A religious landmark, and an architectural one too-
Golden Temple Amritsar

While you visit the Wagah Border, don’t forget to
visit the Golden Temple- an architectural marvel
and a religious epicenter of the country. The
monument witnessed some troubled times during
the Blue Star operation, but nothing has taken
away the spirituality of the place. The architecture
of this monument has influences of Hindu,
Muslim and European cultures. A dip in the lake
here is rejuvenating, while the langar served here

10. Take a walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Assi Ghat,
Varanasi- Embrace Spirituality

10. Take a walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Assi
Ghat, Varanasi- Embrace Spirituality

Talking of spirituality, you just cannot leave
Varanasi out. While here, consider taking a walk
from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Assi Ghat. The
Dashashwamedh Ghat remains most crowded most
times of the day. But that shouldn’t deter your spirit.
In fact, watching the religious ceremony which
happens every evening at 7 is a must have
experience. As you walk from Dashashwamedh to
Assi, you come across several small ghats, where
people are seen revering the Ganges, and some

11. Ramlila at Ramnagar- Watch it with the sadhus

11. Ramlila at Ramnagar- Watch it with the sadhus

Watching traditional Ramlilas is always a great
experience. Seeing hardly trained actors dorn the
role of revered figures in Hindu Mythology for
about 20 days is entertainment of the rustic kind.
Taking this experience to a whole new level is
the Ramlila at Ramnagar, Varanasi. The crowds
here could be anywhere between 1,000 and
10,000, which include Sadhus too in their
traditional attire. It is like watching a Broadway
show live, except that there are much more

12. Zing Zing Bar- The perfect stop before a steep climb

12. Zing Zing Bar- The perfect stop before a steep climb

The name of the place may mislead you. It is not
much a bar, but an army camp where you can grab
a few snacks and drinks while you are on a
Ladakh biking trip. The so called bar lies at the
base to the steep ascent of BarchalaLa Pass. It is a
nice pit-stop where you can chat with the army
men or just admire the beauty of surrounding you.

13. Stay in a Shikara in Dal Lake- Recreate famous
Bollywood scenes

13. Stay in a Shikara in Dal Lake- Recreate famous
Bollywood scenes

You might have stayed in the best luxury hotels in
the world, but nothing can beat the experience of
staying in a Shikara in Dal Lake. There are
houseboats in the Dal Lake which date back to the
18th century. They have intricate wood carvings
and royal interiors, with all the services you can
expect from the best hotels in the world. The
beauty of the Dal Lake which surrounds you is a
mesmerizing experience.

14. Yoga at Parmath Niketan, Rishikesh- Simply
rejuvenating

14. Yoga at Parmath Niketan, Rishikesh- Simply
rejuvenating

Located on the banks of River Ganges, nestled
amidst the majestic Himalayas is Parmath
Niketan in Rishikesh. There is something about
this place which beckons you to contemplate
nature and be at peace with yourself. Even if
spirituality is the last thing on your mind, try an
early morning yoga session here. You will love
the experience.

15. Visit to Bodh Gaya- It enlightens you too

15. Visit to Bodh Gaya- It enlightens you too

This is where Gautama Buddha is said to have
attained enlightenment. Pay a visit to
Mahabodhi Temple, which is regarded as one
of the most important Buddhist temples. Revel
at the spirituality of the place or just chat up
with the local Buddhist monks which reside at
the place. Either way, it is a different kind of
experience you get here.

16. Holi at Vrindavan- Revel in the colors of joy

16. Holi at Vrindavan- Revel in the colors of joy

Holi is a festival which is a special experience in
India. While most places in India celebrate the
festival for only a day, if you love the color of
festivals, Vrindavan is the place to be. Holi is
celebrated for a week here, amidst crowds
thronging the various temples dedicated to Lord
Krishna here. While you can experience the usual
Holi festival with colors here, consider playing
the Lath Maar holi when in Vrindavan; or one
with flowers.

17. Khajuraho Trip- Where passion is not a sin

17. Khajuraho Trip- Where passion is not a sin

Khajuraho is the place which gave India the
name “The Land of Kamasutra.” The erotic rock
carvings of the temples here are an architectural
delight as well as a symbol of love and passion.
Come with your special someone to Khajuraho or
just explore the place alone- it is filled with
mysticism and a side to India which has got lost
in the modern transitions of today’s times.

18. Gastronomical Tour of Lucknow- Sample the delicious
royal cuisine

18. Gastronomical Tour of Lucknow- Sample the delicious
royal cuisine

Delhi is not the only place in India famous for its
gastronomical delights. For a tryst with the royal
cuisine of India, head to Lucknow and savor the
various delicacies of the region. Sample the
biryani of the region and the various kebabs.
Talking of the kebabs, don’t miss out on Tunde ke
Kebab. A part of the Awadhi Cuisine, the kebabs
are made of succulent minced meat, seasoned with
over 160 spices. Tunde ke Kebab has a legacy of

19. Orchha- A tryst with history

19. Orchha- A tryst with history

If you love exploring history, a visit to the town
of Orchha is a must. The town is located in the
Bundelkhand district in Madhya Pradesh, on the
banks of the Betwa River. There is a old fort
here, and a temple to explore as well. It may not
be a quintessential touristy experience, but
nevertheless, a memorable one.

20. Chadar Trek- An amazing trek over a frozen River

20. Chadar Trek- An amazing trek over a frozen River

Trekking in Ladakh is a must have experience.
There are easy treks and some of the more
difficult ones to be had. However, if you have
the desired level of fitness, consider taking the
Chadar Trek when in Ladakh. The trek can be
taken in the months of January and February,
and you get to trek over the frozen Zanskar
River. There are beautiful valleys and some
remote villages to be crossed on the way too.
An ethereal experience is what describes it

21. Take a dip at Sangam- Cleanse your mind, body and
soul

21. Take a dip at Sangam- Cleanse your mind, body and
soul

Sangam is a site of religious as well as national
importance. This is the place where three
important rivers of India meet viz. the Yamuna,
the Ganges and the Saraswati. It is at Sangam
that the Kumbh Mela is held every 12 years; and
it is here that ashes of several important figures
have been immersed, including that of Mahatma
Gandhi. A dip in Sangam is said to wah away all
your sins. But even if you don’t believe in all that
spiritual talk, a dip in Sangam would definitely

22. A dig into Beniram Imarti from Jaunpur – It’s sinfully
delicious

22. A dig into Beniram Imarti from Jaunpur – It’s sinfully
delicious

Usually, places have monuments and famous
addresses as their landmarks. But Jaunpur is
different. Jaunpur in Uttar Pradesh has a sweet
house in its list of most famous places, called the
Beniram Sweet House. Whether you have a
sweet tooth or not, you must dig into the Imartis
you get at this place. They are a heavenly
experience.

23. Kumbh Mela- Where Pilgrims Converge

23. Kumbh Mela- Where Pilgrims Converge

When Bollywood movies of the yore had
brothers lost at Kumbh Mela, they weren’t
cracking a joke. Millions of people throng to the
Ganges and River Godavari to pay their homage
during the Kumbh Mela. It happens every
twelve years in four cities namely- Allahabad,
Nashik, Ujjain and Haridwar. An Ardh Kumbh
Mela happens every six years in Haridwar and
Allahabad. While you visit this spiritual
conglomeration of people, make sure you have

24. Kedarnath Temple- An awesome trek and a spiritual
experience

24. Kedarnath Temple- An awesome trek and a spiritual
experience

Call it a pilgrimage or an exciting trek in the
Himalayan region, either way, it is an exciting
experience. The Kedarnath Temple is located near
the Mandakini River, and attracts thousands of
pilgrims every year. You have take an arduous 14
km trek starting from Gaurikund to reach the
temple. The Kedarnath temple is opened to public
in the month of April till the time around
Dusshehra.

25. Drive on Zuluk Loops- Feel the adrenaline rush

25. Drive on Zuluk Loops- Feel the adrenaline rush

If you are looking for exciting road trips in India,
don’t miss a drive on the Zuluk loops. Located in
the Eastern Sikkim region, Zuluk Loops are
exactly that- meandering roads amidst the winding
hills. Take in the scenery which surrounds you and
experience wind in your face as you make your
way through the hills.

26. Get down and dirty at Satpal Singh Akhada Kushti

26. Get down and dirty at Satpal Singh Akhada Kushti

Indian wrestling is a rustic experience. Men
wrestling in the mud, executing their signature
moods and the crowds cheering them, with the
sun beating down- that is the best definition of
rustic. The Satpal Akhada Kushti in Rampur in
Uttar Pradesh is one of the best places to be at
for experiencing Indian wrestling. Satpal Singh
has won many battles in his time, including a
bronze at Asiad Games, and trains wrestlers at
this Akhada. Don’t forget to take some tips for

27. Experience the colorful culture of Ladakh at Hemis
festival

27. Experience the colorful culture of Ladakh at Hemis
festival

If you thought Ladakh is just a desolate land
inhabited by monks who spend their time
meditating, you are wrong. Come summers, and
the place comes alive with Hemis Festival. Hemis
Monastery is one of the oldest and the most
beautiful monasteries of Ladakh. In summers, it
plays host to a 2 day festival, which sees
traditional dances, and beautiful paintings being
drawn by the villagers. The sound of drums,

28. Be a part of awesome celebrations at Krishna
Janamashtmi in Mathura

28. Be a part of awesome celebrations at Krishna
Janamashtmi in Mathura

Mathura is the hometown of Lord Krishna
according to Hindu Mythology. And it is here you
get to experience the festival of Krishna
Janamashtmi in all its fervor and splendor. Scores
of people throng the temple of Lord Krishna,
which are decorated beautifully. People can be
seen singing hymns and revelling in the festive
atmosphere. Even if you are not the religious
kind, you will love this experience.

29. Pangong Lake- Where dreams and reality converge

29. Pangong Lake- Where dreams and reality converge

Remember the lake at the end of the movie 3
Idiots? That’s the Pangong Lake, which is one of
the most beautiful lakes of Ladakh. It is a
desolate region of the lost kingdom, nestled
amidst the majestic peaks. Take a trek to
Pangong Lake or simple drive down to the place.
You will be awed by the beauty of the lake,
which is said to change colors every season.
Spend the day camping by the lakeside.

31. Sonepur Cattle Fair- A rustic and an animalistic
experience

31. Sonepur Cattle Fair- A rustic and an animalistic
experience

Even though you may be least interested in
buying and selling of cattle, a visit to the
Sonepur Cattle Fair is a must. The fair starts
from Kartik Poornima, which falls in the months
of October and November, and can go on for as
long as a month. It is the biggest cattle fair of
Asia, with scores of cattle being traded between
those interested. The beautifully decorated
elephants at the fair are the highlight of this

32. Trip to Nalanda- Explore the enchanting ruinsa

32. Trip to Nalanda- Explore the enchanting ruins

India is often called a magical land, and snake
charmers are not the reason for that. It is places
like Nalanda which give India that tag. The
ruins of Nalanda date back to 5th century and
housed one of the most important universities in
ancient times. Located in Bihar, close to the
capital state of Patna, a trip to the ruins of
Nalanda lets you feel the magic of the land.

33. Feel the Vibe at Durga Puja

33. Feel the Vibe at Durga Puja

When writers referred to India as a country
with many colors, they actually meant it
literally. Durga Puja is one of the most
colorful festivals of India and is a must do
thing to do in India East. Scores of people can
be seen jiving to roaring drum beats, and
reveling in the moment. Like every other
festival of India, there are lip smacking
delicacies to be had on Durga Puja too. Don’t
miss out on traditional Bengali sweets.

34. Darjeeling train journey- Straight out of a Bollywood
potboiler

34. Darjeeling train journey- Straight out of a Bollywood
potboiler

A ride in the toy train of the hills is a scene right
out of a children’s story book. The train chugs
along the meandering paths of the hills, letting
you take in the views of the majestic Himalayas
in the background.

35. Attend the Hornbill Festival- Feel the Pulse of Nagaland

35. Attend the Hornbill Festival- Feel the Pulse of Nagaland

The north-eastern part of the India hasn’t been
explored to its full potential. Every year, in the
month of December, Nagaland plays host to the
Hornbill festival. You come across colorful tribal
dances of the region and the rich cultural heritage
of the land of the Nagas.

36. Visit Tribes of Orissa- Learn skills of survival

36. Visit Tribes of Orissa- Learn skills of survival

The exotic things to do in eastern part of India
are all about mystic delights. A part of this
mystic experience is the tribes of Orissa.
Several tribes inhabit the state of Orissa. Their
strange beliefs, rituals and their communion
with Mother Nature make for an eventful trip to
the land. You will be left awestruck at the way
they live their everyday lives. Back to the roots
of humanity is what describes this experience
best.

37. Visit the Colonial Past with a Tram ride in Kolkata

37. Visit the Colonial Past with a Tram ride in Kolkata

Kolkata, with its colonial past, is a destination
with a rich cultural heritage. a part of this
heritage is the tram system which runs through
the city- the only city in India to have a tram
network. Trams in Kolkata date back to 1902.
The transport system is still in good order and
connects several parts of the city. It is an
experience you cannot have in any other part of
the country.

38. Tea Tour in Darjeeling- It refreshes you

38. Tea Tour in Darjeeling- It refreshes you

Tea estates in Darjeeling are a treat for the eyes,
as well as for your taste buds. There are
numerous tea estates in the north-eastern part of
the India, some spread over hundreds of acres of
land. Your India experience is not complete
without a tea tour in Darjeeling. Make your way
through vast expanses of tea leaves, watch tea
pluckers in action and sample some exotic
varieties of tea too.

39. Mysore Dusshera Festival- A royal celebration

39. Mysore Dusshera Festival- A royal celebration

Dusshera- the festival which celebrates the
triumph of good over evil- is celebrated with a
lot of fervor all over the country. But none can
match the celebrations in Mysore. This
famous hill station of Karnataka was once
home to royal kingdoms. Come Dusshera and
you can see the beautiful palaces of the region
decorated even more beautifully. The fervor at
the time of the festival is unparalleled.

40. Take a boat ride in the backwaters of Sunderbans-
Feel one with nature

40. Take a boat ride in the backwaters of Sunderbans-
Feel one with nature

The backwaters of Kerala may be a famous
tourist attraction. But the backwaters of
Sunderbans delta are no less. Sunderbans delta
is one of the largest deltas in the world and a
boat ride in the backwaters here takes you
through lush greenery, and gives you a really
serene experience. You could also spot exotic
species of birds while taking the boat ride.

41. Visit the Majestic Tawang Monastery

41. Visit the Majestic Tawang Monastery

Located at a height of about 10,000 feet in the
Tawang town of Arunachal Pradesh is Tawang
Monastery- the largest in India and one of the
largest in the world. The architecture of the
monastery leaves you awestruck, and so does
the spirituality that surrounds this place.
Majestic views in the background complete the
experience.

42. Experience the greatness of nature with a walk across
the Living Root Bridge

42. Experience the greatness of nature with a walk across
the Living Root Bridge

More than 90% of people in India do not know
about this natural wonder that exists in the
rainforests of Cherapunji. Cherapunji is one of the
wettest places on earth and is ideal for the growth
of rubber trees. The local tribes of the region grow
rubber trees and use the roots of these trees as
bridges to cross the many rivers that flow through
the region. Walking on these bridges, which are a
gift from nature, is an absolutely awesome
experience. What’s even more awesome is the

43. Spot a white tiger in Sunderban- It’s simply majestic

43. Spot a white tiger in Sunderban- It’s simply majestic

The Sunderbans delta is home a wide variety of
flora and fauna. The Sunderbans National Park is
spread across parts of India as well as
Bangladesh, and is home to the white tiger and
other species of wildlife and birds. Take a
wildlife safari through Sunderbans National Park
and try spotting the white tiger amidst the dense
foliage. Adventure cannot get wilder than this.

44. Take a boat ride in Loktak Lake – It’s the only floating
lake in the world

44. Take a boat ride in Loktak Lake – It’s the only floating
lake in the world

Loktak Lake in Manipur is the only floating lake
in the world. The mass of vegetation, soil and
other biodegradable mass gives the lake a
floating appearance. Take a boat ride on the
Loktak Lake, which is a major tourist attraction.
The Keibul Lamjao National Park which lies
close to the lake makes the area a haven for bird
watchers and animal enthusiasts as well.

45. Spot one horned rhinos and more at Kaziranga
National Park

45. Spot one horned rhinos and more at Kaziranga
National Park

The north-eastern part of India is home to
plenty of wildlife species. Kaziranga National
park in Assam is no different. The national
park is home to the endangered one-horned
rhinoceros, apart from other wildlife species
such as tigers, elephants, swamp deer etc.
This World Heritage Site can give you the
goose-bumps- the kind that you will love.

46. Attend the Bihu Festival in Assam- Don’t forget to
participate in the dances

46. Attend the Bihu Festival in Assam- Don’t forget to
participate in the dances

While in Assam, don’t forget to attend the Bihu
festivals, if you are there at the right time of the
year. Bihu festival is the national festival of
Assam, and takes place three times in an year,
viz. in the months of January, April and
October. The festival celebrates the cultural
heritage of the land and also the farming
seasons of the place. The one that happens in
April is the most colorful of the lot as it
signifies the onset of spring season.

47. Feel the Pulse of the National with a ride on the
Mumbai Local Train

47. Feel the Pulse of the National with a ride on the
Mumbai Local Train

For a feel of the pulse of the nation, take a ride
in the Mumbai local train. And if you are brave-
hearted enough, consider taking a ride in the
Mumbai local during the peak rush hours. You
get to hear all kinds of discussions while in the
Mumbai locals- from politics to economy and
sports- people share their opinion about
everything. But the biggest wonder of the
journey is how the people survive the journey,
clinging on to the barest of metal pieces they can

48. Old Cathedrals of Goa- Exploring the colonial past of
the region

48. Old Cathedrals of Goa- Exploring the colonial past of
the region

Take a tour of the old churches in Goa, which
give a peek into the rich cultural past of the land,
The churches date back to the time when
Portuguese ruled the land. Some of them have an
interesting story behind them, while others have
beautiful architecture to be marveled at. Some of
the must visits one when in Goa are Basilica of
Bom Jesus, Mary Immaculate Conception and Se
Cathedral.

49. Royal Enfield Tour of Rann of Kutch- Feel the vastness
of nature

49. Royal Enfield Tour of Rann of Kutch- Feel the vastness
of nature

Rann of Kutch is a desolate land which holds
several mysteries. It was home to the Harappan
Civilization, one of the oldest civilizations known
to man, and you can visit the ruins of the
civilization at Dholavira. Royal Enfield conducts
a tour of Rann of Kutch every year, where you
get to experience mesmerizing sunsets and get to
pay tributes to martyrs who have gond down
fighting for the country.

50. Bring back the old times with the Vintage Car Rally in
Jaipur

50. Bring back the old times with the Vintage Car Rally in
Jaipur

Seeing a 1939 Mercedez benz purring to life and
making it all the way to the finish line is an
absolute delight. The vintage car in Jaipur is
increasingly become popular among tourists and
is a matter of pride for vintage car owners. The
event happens every year in the month of January.
Some old beauties you can come across at this
event include a 1923 Fiat 501, a 1923 Austin and
a 1923 Erskine.

51. Feel the royalty- Attend a Royal Wedding in Rajasthan

51. Feel the royalty- Attend a Royal Wedding in Rajasthan

If you get the chance, don’t miss an opportunity to
be a part of a royal wedding on a Rajasthan Tour.
From the decor to the food and the guests of the
honor, and of course the palaces they are hosted
in, everything is ornately royal about them. Even
if you don’t get an opportunity, try gate crashing
one. Maybe you could get lucky.

52. Dhobhi Ghat, Mumbai- A strangely mesmerizing
landmark of Mumbai

52. Dhobhi Ghat, Mumbai- A strangely mesmerizing
landmark of Mumbai

Watching lines of dirty linen being washed
isn’t so much a marvel, but the organization
definitely is. Scores of washer-men wash and
dry the clothes of their customers in this
Mumbai landmark, and surprisingly, hardly
anything gets mixed up. Try chatting with the
locals and get an insight into their daily lives.
You are sure to stumble upon some interesting
stories of celebs and all things Mumbaiya.

53. Kite Flying in Rajasthan- Connect over this traditional
Indian sport

53. Kite Flying in Rajasthan- Connect over this traditional
Indian sport

Rajasthan, particularly the cities of Jaipur,
Jodhpur and Pushkar, play host to a kite festival
every year in the month of January. The festival
sees people from all walks of life participating
and trying to go one up against each other. Pick
up some colorful kites in interesting shapes and
take to the skies to settle old scores. You can
even spot foreigners trying their hand at the
quintessentially Indian sport of kite flying.

54. Feel a strange kind of adrenaline rush with a Camel
Safari in Jaisalmer

54. Feel a strange kind of adrenaline rush with a Camel
Safari in Jaisalmer

Talking of having fun in the desert, you can’t
leave camel safari out of the picture. Jaisalmer
is one of the best places to go on a camel safari
in Rajasthan. There are camel safari packages
available of different duration, and longer the
duration, the better the experience. For the
ultimate experience though, consider taking a
night camel safari. Watching the beautiful
sunset, while riding a camel takes you back to

55. Explore one of the best wine destinations of India with
a Nashik Wine Trip

55. Explore one of the best wine destinations of India with
a Nashik Wine Trip

Indians may not be too fond of having wine, but
Nashik definitely boasts of some pretty
spectacular vineyards. Book a stay in one of the
several resorts of the region which are located
close to some of the finest vineyards of the
region. Take a tour of the vineyards in Nashik,
where you can even taste some pretty delicious
wine too- if you know how to appreciate this
drink that is.

56. Waterfall Rappelling Vihigaon- It gets your adrenaline
zinging

56. Waterfall Rappelling Vihigaon- It gets your adrenaline
zinging

Vihigaon in Thane is a small village where you
can the adventure of a lifetime. There is waterfall
rappelling to be done in the roaring waterfalls of
Vihigaon. You get to combine the experience of
rappelling, mountaineering and maneuvering the
gushing streams of water in this adrenaline
pumping adventure. It takes bones of steel and
some really technical skills to complete this
adventure.

57. Feel the Music with a Garba Dance in Vadodra
(Baroda)

57. Feel the Music with a Garba Dance in Vadodra
(Baroda)

Come Navaratris, and Vadodra in Gujarat
comes alive with myriad colors and sounds of
drums. Garba is a dance form native to the
region, where men as well as women in
colorful attires dance to drum beats, with
dandiyas in their hands. It could also be a fun
way of meeting someone special for those
who are single. Put your dancing shoes on
and give it a shot.

58. Dance, eat and make merry at the Ganesh Chaturthi
in Mumbai

58. Dance, eat and make merry at the Ganesh Chaturthi
in Mumbai

Ganesh Chaturthi is to Mumbai what Durga Puja
is to West Bengal. The festival celebrates the
birth of Lord Ganesha and is celebrated with
pomp and show in the economic capital of the
country. It is a 10 day long festival which ends
with Ganesh Visarajan. It is marked by
immersing the idol of Lord Ganesha in the river.
Music, dance and food conquer the hearts and
minds of Mumbaikars during this festival.

59. Explore Ajanta and Ellora Caves- A mysterious
experience

59. Explore Ajanta and Ellora Caves- A mysterious
experience

Most of us have read about them in our books,
but few of us have actually explored them. If you
haven’t explored the Ajanta Ellora Caves in
Maharashtra, make sure you do that at some
point in your life. The caves are said to millions
of years old. They have rock carvings and some
beautiful architecture in the form of shrines,
which are said to date back to 8th century AD.
While Ajanta Caves are a network of 29 caves,
the Ellora caves are a network of 34 caves.

60. Drink Fenny in Goa- And get high!

60. Drink Fenny in Goa- And get high!

A goan experience is not just about the sun,
the sand and the sea. It is also about Fenny-
the local alcoholic drink of the Goans. Fenny,
or Feni, is made by fermenting either cashews
or coconut. It is said to have an intoxicating
effect within minutes and can give you quite
a high. Make sure you are with a trustworthy
group of friends though while you decide to
give Fenny a shot; or rather, take a shot of
Fenny.

61. Watch DDLJ at Maratha Mandir Theatre, Mumbai-
Bring back your college days

61. Watch DDLJ at Maratha Mandir Theatre, Mumbai-
Bring back your college days

Even if you have already seen the movie a
million times, watch it once more at Maratha
Mandir Theatre in Mumbai. The movie has been
at the theatre for 15 years now and still gets 60-
70% occupancy on weekdays and housefull on
weekends. Watching the movie amidst cheers
from the crowd with a bucket of popcorn could
put you right back in your college days.

62. Explore the Elephanta Caves- They are one big Mystery

62. Explore the Elephanta Caves- They are one big Mystery

Located in Mumbai Harbor, close to the city of
Mumbai are Elephanta Caves. They are a network
of caves with rock sculptures and engravings
which date back to thousands of years ago. There
are caves with Hindu engravings as well as those
with Buddhist engravings and sculptures. Take an
expedition to Elephanta Caves and explore
enchanting history of the land. You will be amazed
something like this exists so close to the concrete

63. Interact with Vadi Tribe in Gujarat- India’s Original
Snake Charmers

63. Interact with Vadi Tribe in Gujarat- India’s Original
Snake Charmers

If you have ever wondered from where does
India get its tag of “the land of snake
charmers”, you will find your answer in the
Vadi Tribe. Vadi Tribe in Gujarat is known for
its skill as snake charmers. Young children not
more than five years old can be seen sitting
close to a venomous Cobra and hardly
flinching. While they may not let you on the
secret to snake charming, they can give you

64. Pushkar Camel Fair- A riot of colors

64. Pushkar Camel Fair- A riot of colors

Pushkar in Rajasthan plays host to a
splendid camel fair every year in the month
of October or November, starting from
Kartik Poornima. The event attracts lacs of
tourists every year- some interested in
trading camels, while others just enjoying
the spectacle. Camels are decorated in
colorful attire for selling, and there are
local Rajasthani delicacies to be had at the
fair. If you want a different experience of

65. Stay in a royal hotel in Rajasthan- Feel like a King!

65. Stay in a royal hotel in Rajasthan- Feel like a King!

Rajasthan is one of the most royal states of
India, and is perhaps the only one where the
royal tradition is still intact. Many luxurious
palaces of the state have been converted into
heritage hotels, and offer a truly luxurious
experience. If you are looking for a king like
experience, consider a stay in one of the many
royal hotels in Rajasthan. Lake Palace in
Udaipur is one of the best known ones, but
there are others too.

66. Experience spirituality at the Haji Ali Dargah

66. Experience spirituality at the Haji Ali Dargah

Located in Mumbai, on the Worli Coast is
the Haji Ali Dargah. The monument dates
back to 1431 and attracts scores of
pilgrims as well as tourists every year.
The energy of the music that plays here
all day long gets you excited and happy
about life. It is said that whatever you
wish for at Haji Ali comes true. Have
something in your heart which you dearly

67. Visit the Osho Ashram in Pune for Connecting with
your Soul

67. Visit the Osho Ashram in Pune for Connecting with
your Soul

Every year, plenty of foreigners visit the Osho
Ashram for peace of mind. Some even decide
to stay back for the rest of their lives. If you
are searching for that spiritual guidance in
your life, consider a trip to Osho Ashram in
Pune. There is a reason several people visit
this spiritual center every year.

68. Trip on Palace on Wheels- A Royal Experience Indeed

68. Trip on Palace on Wheels- A Royal Experience Indeed

Palace on Wheels is exactly what the name
implies. It is considered as one of the top ten most
luxurious train journeys in athe world. The train
has 14 air conditioned, ornate rooms; two
restaurants serving the best of delicacies; a
fantastic bar; and the most personalized of
services. You have to make your booking for this
fascinating train journey well in advance.
Currently, there are tickets available for a train
journey in October. Grab the tickets while you

69. Chor Bazaar, Mumbai- The Name cannot be more
misleading

69. Chor Bazaar, Mumbai- The Name cannot be more
misleading

If you love vintage and collectible items, you
can most probably find them in Chor Bazaar,
located in the southern part of Mumbai
suburb. The original name of the market was
Shor Bazaar, but you can trust the British
accent to make everything sound interesting
and exotic. The present name can be
misleading, although stolen goods can be
found here.

70. Take a Romantic Drive with your Better Half on the
Marine Drive

70. Take a Romantic Drive with your Better Half on the
Marine Drive

Few places in Mumbai are as romantic as marine
drive. The 3 km long drive located in the
southern part of Mumbai is actually land
reclaimed from the sea. Consider taking a bike or
car drive on this 3 km long stretch or just walk
along the sea, with fresh breeze to rejuvenate and
re-energize you. If you have a special someone
in your life, it could be the perfect setting for a
romantic date.

71. Dune Bashing Rajasthan- Feel Like a Kid all over Again

71. Dune Bashing Rajasthan- Feel Like a Kid all over Again

We all loved playing with sand and then taking
down our beautiful structures when we were
young, didn’t we? Replay that childhood
adventure on a much larger scale with dune
bashing in Rajasthan. It is exactly what the name
implies- you get on board an off-roader and take
to exploring the sand dunes of the desert state of
Rajasthan. Travelling through vast expanses of
barren lands seems like an ethereal experience at

72. Karni Mata Temple- Of Beliefs and Rituals

72. Karni Mata Temple- Of Beliefs and Rituals

Located in Deshnoke, a little distance away
from Bikaner, Rajasthan is the Karni Mata
temple. The temple is dedicated to a
incarnation of Goddess Durga and sees scores
of pilgrims visiting it, especially during the
time of Navaratris. Make sure you don’t kill
any of the rats here though, because that
would mean you need to donate a golden rat to
the temple. And in case you spot a white rat
among the scores of black ones, you can

73. Camping at Sham e Sarhad- For an Earthy Experience

73. Camping at Sham e Sarhad- For an Earthy Experience

Sham e Sarhad is a village resort in Gujarat in
Hodka Village which seeks to promote eco-
tourism. You get to stay in mud-houses here,
watch mesmerizing sunsets and explore the local
craftsmanship of the region. The resort is open to
tourists from the month of October to March.
Camping here is one of the most earthy
experiences you can have in India.

74. For a Rendezvous with Spirits and Ghosts, visit Bhangarh

74. For a Rendezvous with Spirits and Ghosts, visit Bhangarh

If stories of ghosts and spirits excite you, head to
Bhangarh, which is said to be a haunted town in
Alwar Rajasthan. You get to hear spooky stories
from the locals here, and travelers have even
experienced supernatural experiences while here.
Take a trip to Bhangarh, and who knows, you
might just start believing in ghosts.

75. Play Elephant Polo in Rajasthan- It’s an Exciting
Experience

75. Play Elephant Polo in Rajasthan- It’s an Exciting
Experience

Rajasthan is about all things royal. So how
could a game of polo be far behind? But there
is something more different in store here than
the usual horse polo; it is elephant polo. Get
atop an elephant and try to take the ball to the
goal. You have guides to help you out. It does
not matter who wins or loses. It is a great
experience to be a part of.

76. Watch a Snake Boat Race in Kerala- Don’t forget to
Cheer

76. Watch a Snake Boat Race in Kerala- Don’t forget to
Cheer

Kerala experiences a festival of a different
kind, every year in the months of August and
September. Scores of people throng to the
backwaters of Kerala to watch men battle it out
in exciting snake boat races. Watching them
paddling in unison is a great example of how
teamwork is necessary to succeed.

77. Visit Hampi- The land of a Celebrated Kingdom

77. Visit Hampi- The land of a Celebrated Kingdom

Located in Karnataka is Hampi Village, home
to the erstwhile Vijayanagar empire. You get
to walk amidst the ruins of the empire in this
village, which is a UNESCO World Heritage
Site. There are fascinating temples, some
waterfalls and enchanting history to be
explored here. It is a haven for those
interested in stories of kings and queens.

78. Relax in a House Boat in Kerala- You will Love It

78. Relax in a House Boat in Kerala- You will Love It

Houseboats in Dal Lake, Srinagar are a
mesmerizing experience. The ones in Kerala
are not too far behind either. While a house
boat in Kerala may lack in luxurious decor, it
more than makes up for it with the serenity
that surrounds it. Staying amidst dense
foliage, with the most personalized service is
exactly the kind of break you need from the
stressed routines of today.

79. Visit the Sun Temple in Konark- An Architectural
Masterpiece

79. Visit the Sun Temple in Konark- An Architectural
Masterpiece

Located in Konark, Orissa, is the Sun Temple,
which dates back to the 13th century. The
temple is dedicated to Lord Surya, or the Sun,
and is an architectural marvel. It is a
UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the
many wonders of the world. Take a trip to this
marvellous piece of architecture which will
leave you awestruck.

80. Visit the Meenakshi Temple- Of 33,000 sculptures and
more

80. Visit the Meenakshi Temple- Of 33,000 sculptures and
more

One of the most important landmarks in Madurai, which
is also known as the temple city, is the Meenakshi
Temple. The temple is thronged by thousands of tourists
everyday, which translates to temple’s revenue of INR
sixty million every year. The temple dates back to 1623
CE and is an architectural masterpiece, with an
estimated number of 33,000 sculptures. If you can brave
the crowds, consider visiting it during the months of
April and May, at the time of the Tirukalyanam Festival.

81. See the Kathakali Fest- A beautiful art-form

81. See the Kathakali Fest- A beautiful art-form

Trained dancers dancing in colorful
costumes, telling stories of love, passion
and betrayal is definitely something that
shouldn’t be missed. The kathakali fest
happens every year at Sree
Padmanabhaswamy Temple in
Trivandrum. It is a 10 day long
festival, with beautiful dances scheduled
on all days.

82. Stay in a Tree House- And live your childhood dream

82. Stay in a Tree House- And live your childhood dream

The southern part of India, particularly Kerala,
has plenty of resorts with tree houses. A stay in
one of these tree houses is truly an experience
not to be missed. Staying high above the
ground, with dense foliage surrounding you can
be termed rustic as well as unusual. Even if you
haven’t dreamt of staying in tree houses eve as a
kid, you have got to try it. You will fall in love
with it.

83. Stand on the southernmost tip of India- Experience
the Bliss

83. Stand on the southernmost tip of India- Experience
the Bliss

Indira Point in Nicobar Island is the
southernmost tip of India, while Cape Comorin
in the southernmost mainland. Take a trip to
these extremities of the country and
contemplate nature. Watching an beautiful
sunset while here is surely not to be missed. It
will leave an indelible mark on your memory.

84. For a relaxed yet adventurous experience, try Bamboo
Rafting in Periyar

84. For a relaxed yet adventurous experience, try Bamboo
Rafting in Periyar

You may have rafted in the thrilling rapids of
Rishikesh, but this one is a different experience.
Bamboo rafting in Periyar is a part of wildlife
experience in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. You get
on rafts made of bamboo and make your way
through dense foliage which is home to exotic
species of birds and animals. It is a tranquil
experience as well as an adventurous one.

85. Auto Rampaging in Chennai- A road trip of a different
kind

85. Auto Rampaging in Chennai- A road trip of a different
kind

If you are searching for a different thing to do in
India, it cannot get more different than driving an
auto through the country. This challenging and
fun activity starts from Chennai and lets you drive
an auto through the states of Maharashtra, Goa
and Tamil Nadu, covering an exciting 1900 km.
Sounds exciting? It definitely is.

86. Wash elephants at Dubare Elephant Camp- It is not
just for the kids

86. Wash elephants at Dubare Elephant Camp- It is not
just for the kids

Dubare Elephant Camp, close to Bangalore, lets
you be up, close and personal with elephants.
You can give the elephants a nice bath at this
camp, feed them and even take a free ride if the
mahouts are willing. It is not just a great activity
for kids. Even the adults would enjoy it, with
elephants spraying water with their trunks
occasionally.

87. Go Scuba Diving in Havelock Islands- There are
amazing corals to be explored.

87. Go Scuba Diving in Havelock Islands- There are
amazing corals to be explored.

Havelock Islands in the Andamans are one of
the best places to go scuba diving in
India. There are plenty of dive sites in
Havelock Islands, which bring you face to face
with the most beautiful corals and aquatic life
of the region. Some of the most popular diving
sites in Havelock Sites include Dixon Pinnacle,
South Pilot Reef, Dungong Dungeon and
Elephant Beach.

88. Try the Ayurvedic Massage in Kerala- The Perfect
remedy for Stressed Muscles

88. Try the Ayurvedic Massage in Kerala- The Perfect
remedy for Stressed Muscles

It has medicinal properties; it is relaxing; and
it is divine. Ayurvedic massage on a Kerala
Tour could be just what the doctor ordered for
your stressed muscles. Feel the bliss as
masseuers work their magic with traditional
Kerala massages that put you at ease while
exfoliating your mind, body and soul.

89. Be a part of the Thaipusam festival- Don’t miss the
Kavadi Attam Dance

89. Be a part of the Thaipusam festival- Don’t miss the
Kavadi Attam Dance

India is a land of colorful festivals, out of
which, one of them is the Thaipusam Festival.
The festival is celebrated among the Tamil
Community during the months of January or
February. You can feast your eyes on the
Kavadi Attam dance, which is the highlight of
this festival. Deavouts bring themselves pain in
this beautifully choreographed dance in order
to seek the blessings of Lord Murugan.

90. Experience the Onam Festival and the amazing dance-
A Form of Puli Kali

90. Experience the Onam Festival and the amazing dance-
A Form of Puli Kali

Onam is a harvest festival celebrated in the state
of Kerala. While the festival in itself is colorful,
with people reveling in the spirit of the harvest
season, the highlight of the festival is Puli Kali.
It is a traditional folk dance where people
dressed as tigers and hunters in bright yellow
costumes dance to drum beats. Watching them
perform is a marvelous experience.

91. Take a trip to Cellular Jail in Port Blair- Explore the
Tales of Freedom Fighters

91. Take a trip to Cellular Jail in Port Blair- Explore the
Tales of Freedom Fighters

The Cellular Jail, colloquially known as the
Kala Paani jail, is a national monument located
in Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar
Islands. It is a colonial jail used by the
Britishers to send political prisoners of India
into exile. Take a walk through the jail and get
a closer look at India’s struggle for
independence. When you get this close to
history, you can feel what the people must have

92. Take an Elephant Safari in Munnar- It’s fun

The enchanting hills of Munnar have an elephant
camp as well, known as Munnar Carmelgiri
Elephant Park. Take an elephant safari in this
elephant park, which is a great experience for kids
as well as adults. Elephant safaris of upto 1 hour
can be had here, and you can even feed or bathe
the elephants if you life. Don’t worry, the
elephants are tamed.

93. Travel in a train- Discover the Real India

93. Travel in a train- Discover the Real India

Looking to go on a discovery of real India?
Consider a train journey, but not of the first
class kind. Travel with the people of “other
India” and get to know about varied cultures,
traditions and stories from the far-off land.
While a lot is said about hygiene and service
of Indian railways, a train journey can prove
to be really exciting, as you get to make new
friends along the way.

94. Take a Bullock Cart Ride- More than an eco-friendly
way of travelling

94. Take a Bullock Cart Ride- More than an eco-friendly
way of travelling

Now, you may fantasize about driving the
Ferrari or the Lamborghini, but for once, slow
down the pace of your life and consider
taking a bullock cart ride. You can choose to
make your way through lush fields or even
take a bullock cart ride on the highway. Such
are the colors of India. There is so much to do
here.

95. Participate in Pottery Making in Villages- You never
knew you could do this

95. Participate in Pottery Making in Villages- You never
knew you could do this

Consider taking a tour of the villages of India
and try your hand at pottery making. Taking clay
and seeing it take interesting shapes right before
your eyes has a rustic appeal which is sure to
give you happiness.

96. Play Kabaddi- Get Soiled, just like old times

96. Play Kabaddi- Get Soiled, just like old times

Get down and dirty and play a match of
Kabaddi. Punjab is the best place to indulge
in this traditional Indian sport. Don’t forget
to apply loads of oil on your body and
practice saying “Kabaddi Kabaddi” without
a pause in between. Even if you lose, you
will love getting soiled and feeling the
adrenaline pumping through your veins

97. Watch wall of death- Be amazed at the talent of
brave heart People

97. Watch wall of death- Be amazed at the talent of
brave heart People

If you ever come across a fair in India, don’t
forget to catch a session of wall of death.
Expert professionals ride a bike, or even
cars on steeply inclined walls, doing all
sorts of crazy stunts. Amazement is what
you will experience watching these hardcore
professionals in action. However, by no
means should you try these activities at
home.

98. Play Cricket on the Street- You get to make your own
rules

98. Play Cricket on the Street- You get to make your own
rules

Cricket is to India what Brazil is to football.
People do not need parks or stadiums to play a
game of cricket. All they need is an empty street
corner and it is game on. Play a game of street
cricket in India, with its peculiar rules and
dollops of excitement. Watch out- one-tip-one-
hand is out!

99. Pop a Golgappa in your mouth- A burst of flavor

99. Pop a Golgappa in your mouth- A burst of flavor

Called a phuchka in Kolkata, Golgappa is
one of the best Indian snacks for the evening.
Filled with tangy tamarind water, it gives you
a burst of flavor as it pops in your mouth.
Make sure you pop in the whole golgappa at
once. That’s the real fun part of having this
Indian delight.

100. Try Snorkelling with elephants- An Unmatched
Experience

100. Try Snorkelling with elephants- An Unmatched
Experience

This one will amaze you. It’s an experience
you are going to have to have a tough time
finding somewhere else. Andaman and Nicobar
Islands have their own snorkeling elephant-
Rajan, lovingly called the snorkeling Rajan.
See Rajan take a dive into water, use his trunk
as a snorkel and finds his way to the top. It’s an
experience you will find hard to believe, even
as you watch it with your own eyes.

101. Just be in any part of India on Diwali

101. Just be in any part of India on Diwali

Diwali is the Christmas of India, the
only thing- it is larger, jazzier, and more
fun. You could be in any part of India,
but you cannot miss out on the
celebratory vibe on this festival. If you
haven’t experienced this festival ever,
you must jot it down in your to-do list.
You will love the loud decorations, the
awesome food, and the sky lighting up
with fire crackers, all of which is
typical of this festival.

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http://www.flickr.com/photos/pankajtrivedi/2792375326/
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tamilnadu/article829495.ece
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monsoon_1708699-4#top
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